Rep. Costa Announces $3 Million To Create Jobs, Strengthen Valley Health Care

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Jim Costa today announced $2,999,913 in funding to strengthen health care and create new job opportunities in the Valley. The funding, made available through the Department of Labor's Community-Based Job Training program, will help meet the Valley's growing health care workforce needs by providing job training and placement to over 300 Valley residents.

"These funds will create jobs and strengthen health care right here in our Valley. It's a double win for our region," said Costa. "Our health care workforce must expand to meet the needs of our growing population, and this funding is a key step towards reaching that goal. Moving forward, I will continue to ensure that our local colleges and medical centers have the tools they need to succeed and serve Valley residents."

The funding was awarded to State Center Community College District (SCCCD). SCCCD partners with local workforce investment boards, community colleges, and rural and urban hospitals to offer training and job placement in healthcare occupations with a demonstrated need for workers in the Valley. Those new to the health care workforce receive training in both general and specialty progressions. Displaced workers receive refresher certifications to allow them to find and obtain employment. Incumbent workers receive training in areas of local need such as health care interpreting and/or upgraded credentials that leads to better occupational security and job advancement.

Key SCCCD partnerships include Community Medical Centers, UCSF Fresno Medical Education Program, West Hills Community College District, and Fresno City College.